Mel Schilling, the relationship expert from Married At First Sight, has expressed her optimism and confidence about the future despite her battle with colon cancer. The 52-year-old Australian revealed her diagnosis in December and underwent surgery and chemotherapy after experiencing symptoms while filming the Australian edition of the show. Serving as an ambassador for the colorectal charity Occtopus, Mel shared details of her 90-minute keyhole surgery under general anesthesia and spinal block, followed by a five-day hospital stay. Remarkably, she quickly resumed her normal eating and bathroom habits post-operation, and returned to work part-time just three weeks later. Although she acknowledges experiencing some fatigue, bloating, and nausea due to chemotherapy, Mel maintains a positive outlook with her energy levels at about 70%. She remains hopeful and confident about her prognosis and the future ahead.


The Aussie announced she’d been diagnosed with the disease in December and underwent surgery as well as chemotherapy
Speaking on Heart Breakfast with Jamie Theakston and Amanda Holden earlier this month, Mel once again opened up about her current feelings. She expressed that she was “doing well” and mentioned having a week off from chemotherapy, which boosted her energy. Mel clarified that the type of chemotherapy she is undergoing doesn’t typically cause sickness or hair loss but has resulted in “tingly fingers.” Jamie commended Mel’s honesty in sharing her cancer diagnosis with her fans and inquired about her well-being. Mel responded with gratitude, stating, “I’m doing well. So this is currently a week off in my chemo cycles, which is why I’ve got quite a lot of energy today. I’m doing well. Thank you.” Jamie also asked about Mel’s experience with chemotherapy, recalling his mother’s challenging journey with it.

Mel, now an ambassador for the colorectal charity Occtopus, informed PA that her surgery was a 90-minute keyhole procedure performed under general anesthesia and spinal block.

“It’s probably not the typical demographic you’d anticipate seeing on Married at First Sight or any reality TV show, for that matter.
“It’s a different kind of individual, and I believe many in our audience will find it highly relatable. I anticipate viewers will perceive the upcoming UK season from a fresh perspective.”
This comes after Mel shared the ordeal she endured before her cancer diagnosis.
In an interview with new! magazine last month, Mel recounted the excruciating pain she experienced while at work, stating, “I was doubled over and shouting – the pain was so intense.”
Initially, her doctors attributed her symptoms to constipation, but her concerns escalated when she began losing her appetite.
During a trip to Ireland with her husband Gareth, Mel described being in “so much pain” and struggling to keep food or water down.